Julius Randle arrived late on his first day of work with the Lakers. The reasons had nothing to do with sleeping in or getting stuck in traffic.

Randle visited two different doctors on Monday, the latest series of physicals that could provide clarity on whether he needs surgery on his right foot. Then, Randle arrived at the Lakers’ facility in El Segundo for his introductory press conference, speaking glowingly about L.A. drafting him seventh overall from the University of Kentucky. Randle will fly today to Indianapolis,where he will visit another doctor, according to sources familiar with his itinerary. Although they will not have full clarity until the end of this week, the Lakers do not expect Randle will need surgery to treat his right foot after a pin was incorrectly placed there after he broke it while playing for his Dallas-area high school.

“Based on his performance and his play last year through a full schedule,” Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said, “we don’t expect anything different to come up.”

Despite his injury, Randle averaged a nation-leading 24 double-doubles for the Wildcats and played in all 40 games last season. Randle said he “plans to play” in the Las Vegas Summer league from July 11-21.

Will that warrant Randle starting with the Lakers?

“That’s something you have to earn,” Randle said. “I can come in and contribute right away. It’s all going to depend on my work ethic.”

Once free agency began on Monday, the Lakers could land LeBron James or Carmelo Anthony. Or the Lakers could just sign role players to one-year deals. Randle also believes his bruising style would complement Pau Gasol’s versatility should the Lakers re-sign him. Yet, it appears Randle will have a significant role through any scenario. “He’s going to get minutes, not only because we need players but because he’s going to earn it,” Kupchak said. “There will be an adjustment period, but he will fit right in quickly.”

Some of those adjustments will entail becoming an effective mid-range shooter and defender. Another involves playing with Kobe Bryant, whom Randle has considered his childhood idol.

“I’ve been warned and told he can push his teammates,” Randle said with a smile. “I’m excited about the opportunity to learn from him.”

Randle believes he can also handle the pressure playing for a Lakers team intent on getting back to championship contention.

“In the state of Kentucky, all they know is Kentucky basketball,” Randle said. “It’s the same thing in L.A. They love the Lakers and they expect nothing less but championships.”

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So does Randle, who outlined his NBA goals this way: “Win a lot of championships and reach my full potential.”

Randle largely credited that mindset to mentors who attended his press conference. Former Oklahoma star Jeff Webster coached Randle on an AAU team and served as a father figure. Randle’s mother, Carolyn Kyles, played basketball at the University of Texas, Arlington, and allowed her son to wear No. 30 for the Wildcats and Lakers, the same number she wore.